Mercury acetylide diesters



United "States Patent Ofiice 3,219,677 Patented Nov. 23, 1965 This application is a continuation-in-part of application Serial No. 833,399, filed August 13, 1959, now US. Patent 3,087,951.

The present invention relates to novel polymeric acteylides, their production from alpha, omega diacetylenes, and applications of such materials.

The primary object of the present invention is the provision of novel polymeric mercury acetylides.

A further object of the present invention is to prepare new and useful polyacetylene derivatives.

A still further object of the present invention is to provide novel inorganic-organic monomers and polymers.

These and other objects and advantages of the invention will more fully appear from the following description thereof.

The present invention comprises compounds obtained by reacting an alpha-omega diyne with a suorce of mercury, e.g., a mercury-containing compound. The compounds of this invention have the structure but during polymerization, there also may be formed cyclic polymers of the structure a yh m 4 alog nl-alkyl as well as corresponding ortho and meta radicals, oxygen, sulfur, mercury, boron, boron-containing radicals such as 31 17 in 4 Eg[ allkyl B g I a fige o to Him heterocyclic radicals such as nfiiloofl aryl substituted alkylene radicals, e.g.,

i, JLLQ I i 7 d substituted alkylene radicals, e.g.,

OM O, wherein M is selected from the group consisting of calcium, barium, zinc, tin, lead,

R being selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl, i.e., up to about 10 carbon atoms, or aryl radicals, e.g., phenyl or naphthyl, and radicals of the foregoing types which are terminated at each end by the radical Somewhat more specific and illustrative novel compounds of this invention are mercury derivatives of alpha, omega polyacetylenic hydrocarbons represented by the structure (II I L .1:- wherein x and n are numbers from 1 to 100, inclusive, e.g., 1 to 10; R is a divalent hydrocarbon radical, e.g., alkylene, such as methylene, ethylene, propylene, isopropylene, butylene and other branched chain alkylene radicals; an arylene radical such as phenylene or naphthylene radicals; an alkarylene radical such as tolylene or Xylylene radicals; or an aralkylene radical such as benzylene or phenethylene radicals.

Other specific and illustrative compounds of this invention are the linear mercury polyacetylenic diesters preared by reacting an ester-group containing diyne and a mercury compound represented by the structure ego- R P050411 wherein n is a number from 0 to 100, inclusive; R R, R" and R are alkylene radicals such as methylene, ethylene, butylene, propylene, or the like, and R is as previously defined.

Illustrative of specific compounds embodying the invention (wherein x=1 to are the following:

bis( 1,7-octadiynyl mercury 3 po1 y(l,7-octadiynyl mercury) HECEC-(CH2) CECHgE'r poly 1, 8-nonadiynyl) mercury bis 1,8-nonadiynyl) mercury bis(2-propynyl)malonate, Hg derivative 1,l-mercuribis-(4,9-dioxa-1,l l-dodecadiyne-5,8-dione copolymer of bis(2-propynyl)terephthalate and Hg copolymer of bis (2-propynyl) tetrachloroterephthalate and Hg Linear polymeric mercury derivative of 4-pentynyl succinate o o H050- Hz)3o%- o11i)ii Jo(Grim-o Linear polymeric mercury derivative of 4-pentyny1 tetrachloro-terephthalate poly[1,7,13-tetradecatriynyl mercury (11)] L J: A

poly [d iproparg yl succinate mercury (11)] poly[dipropargy1 maleate mercury (11)] O H H O n-gozo-oH -O -oE=i J QCH;-CEG-H bis 1,7, IZ-tetradecatriynyl mercury (II) poly[1,8,15-hexadecatriynyl mercury (II)] J2 bis (methyl-1,7, 13, l9-heneicosatetrayne-2 1-0 ate) mercury r I 0Hoozo CH C-=-C-H L J3 A g bis (6-chloro-1-hexynyl) mercury (II) .12 poly [bis 3-butynyl 2,3 ,5 ,6-tetrachloroterephthalate mer- 'Y C1 C1 i i1 H-E E0 om o-d -o-o(oH2)iozc-H1 ll 51 Compounds of this invention generally are characterized by low water solubility; solubility in organic solvents (depending on the degree of polymerization, size and nature of the R groups); and lack of offensive odor characteristic of relatively volatile, lower molecular weight dialkyl mercury compounds, e.g., (C H Hg or a s h Compounds of this invention can be formed by chemically reacting an alpha,omega-diacetylene (diyne) of the structure The alpha,omega diacetylenes used in the preparation of compounds of this invention can be prepared (1) by reacting disodium acetylide with an alpha,omega dihalide, e.g.,

2NaCEC-Na Br(OH2)mBr F 'I H-C- :0

L( 2) C J as described in US. Patent No. 3,052,734.

The reaction generally should be carried out at a pH greater than 7, and preferably greater than 8.5. Increasing the basicity increases the rate of reaction. The base, OH'", neutralizes the H+ produced in the reaction, Thus, One may control the rate of reaction by pH control. This may be accomplished by a dropwise addition of dilute base to a neutral mixture of K HgL, and the diyne. The rate of reaction typically is followed with a pH meter. Such a controlled reaction at a pH ofi CI 8.0 to 8.5 usually leads to the formation of lower mo- On the other hand, an excess of base leads to a rapid formation of higher molecular weight mercury acetylides. Accordingly, instead of keeping the pH constant during the reaction by a dropwise addition of base, one may use a buffered system. The reactions are conveniently carried out at room temperature. Higher temperatures, e.g., 70 0, lead to formation of discolored products, mainly due to a liberation of mercury. Elevated pressures are not required.

If desired, a suitable solvent for one or more of the reactants can be employed. Thus, the diyne can be dis solved in a lower alkanol such as methanol or ethanol. In many instances, the solvent may contain a small amount of water, e.g., to

In genenal, the products of this invention can be recovered from water by filtration, centrifugation or the like, washed with an alcohol or water-alcohol mixture and dried.

The analysis of the reaction product, linear vs. cyclic, is on the basis of spectroscopic analysis. The presence of a terminal triple bond, C CH, is evident from the absorption bands near 3.02 and 4.7a. These bands are naturally absent in a cyclic mercury acetylide. Preferably, the reaction of the mercury compound and the alpha,ornega diacetylene is carried out in the presence of a solvent such as dioxane, tetrahydrofuran, a lower ketone such as methyl ethyl ketone, an alkanol such as ethanol, e.g., anhydrous or aqueous ethanol and, broadly, those other solvents which do not react With the alpha,omega diacetylenes defined in the structure above.

The reaction may take place at the reflux temperature of the reaction mixture, e.g., about 70 to 80 C., employing aqueous ethanol as the solvent; however, in many instances, the reaction is preferably carried out at room temperature. At times, it is desirable that the reaction be initiated at a temperature below room temperature such as about l0 C.

Generally, the above chemical reaction is carried out over a period of about ,42 to 2 hours, although in certain instances, reaction times up to about hours may be employed. The nature of the resultant product varies with the rate of addition and concentration of the reactants. Yields are generally better than typically better than 90%.

Purification of the resultant product is carried out by washing with water or organic solvents and drying. However, caution should be exercised in the heating of a linear mercuric polyyne of this invention in that heating may cause a change in chemical structure such as cyclization, as evidenced by infrared data. For example, the following cyclization of the corresponding linear compound may occur:

wherein R is as previously defined. Accordingly, purification is preferably accomplished through washing with an aqueous-organic solvent such as 50% aqueous alcohol.

The novel organic mercury compounds of this invention are useful as chemical intermediates and exhibit biological activity in addition to applications in the field of polymers. More specifically, such compounds are fungicidal as in the control of blight fungi.

The compounds of the present invention are also use- 111 for protecting painted surfaces from attack by fungi and other organisms. While it is possible to apply the compounds of the present invention in undiluted form to the plant or other material to be protected, it is frequently desirable to apply the novel mercury compounds in admixture with either solid or liquid inert, pesticidal adjuvants. Thus, the mercury compounds can be applied to the plants for fungicidal purposes, for example, by spraying them with aqueous or organic solvent dispersions of the mercury compound. Similarly, wood surfaces can be protected by applying a protective film of the mercury compound by brushing, spraying or dipping utilizing a liquid dispersion of the material. The choice of an appropriate solvent is determined largely by the concentration of active ingredient which it is desired to employ, by the volatility required in a solvent, the cost of the solvent and the nature of the material being treated. Among the many suitable organic solvents which can be employed as carriers for the present pesticides, there may be mentioned hydrocarbons such as benzene, toluene, xylene, kerosene, diesel oil, fuel oil, petroleum,

' naphtha, ketones such as acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and cyclohexanone, chlorinated hydrocarbons, such as carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, trichloroethylene, perchlorethylene, esters such as ethyl acetate, amyl acetate and butyl acetate, the monoalkyl ethers of ethylene glycol, e. g., the monomethyl ethers and the monoalkyl ethers of diethylene glycol, e.g., the monoethyl ether, alcohols such as ethanol, isopropanol and amyl alcohol, etc.

The mercury compounds can also be applied to plants and other materials along with inert sol-id fungicidal adjuvants or carriers such as talc, pyrophyllite, Attaclay, kieselguhr, chalk, diatomaceous earth, lime, calcium carbonate, bentonite, fullers earth, cottonseed hulls, wheat flour, soybean flour, etc., pumice, tripoli, wood flour, walnut shell flour and lignin.

It is frequently desirable to incorporate a surface active agent in the pesticidal compositions of this invention. Such surface active agents are advantageously employed in both the solid and liquid compositions. The surface active agent can be anionic, cationic or nonionic in character.

Typical classes of surface active agents include alkyl sulfonates, alkylaryl sulfonates, alkyl sulfates, alkylamide sulfonates, alkylaryl polyether alcohols, fatty acid esters of polyhydric alcohols, ethylene oxide addition products of such esters; addition products of long chain mercaptans and ethylene oxide; sodium alkyl benzene sulfonates having 14 to 18 carbon atom-s, alkylphenolethylene oxides, e.g., p-isooctyl phenol condensed with 10 ethylene oxide units; and soaps, e.g., sodium stearate and sodium oleate.

The solid and liquid formulations can be prepared in any suitable method. Thus, the active ingredients, in finely divided form is a solid, may be tumbled together with finely divided solid carrier. Alternatively, the active ingredient .in liquid form, including solutions, dispersions, emulsions and suspensions thereof, may be admixed with the solid carrier in finely divided form in amounts small enough to preserve the free-flowing property of the final dust composition.

When solid compositions are employed, in order to obtain a high degree of coverage with a minimum dosage of the formulation, it is desirable that the formulation be in finely divided form. The dust containing active ingredient usually should be sufficiently fine that substantially all will pass through a ZO-mesh Tyler sieve. A dust which passes through a ZOO-mesh Tyler sieve also is satisfactory.

For dusting purposes, preferably formulations are employed in which the active ingredient is present in an amount of five to 50 percent of the total by weight. However, concentrations outside this range are operative and compositions containing from 1 to 99 percent of active ingredient by Weight are contemplated, the remainder being carrier and/ or any other additive or adjuvant material which may be desired. It is often advantageous to add small percentages of surface active agents, e.g., 0.5 to 1 percent of the total composition by weight, to dust formulations, such as the surface active agents previously set forth.

For spray application, the active ingredient may be dissolved or dispersed in a liquid carrier, such as water or other suitable liquid. The active ingredient can be in the form of a solution, suspension, dispersion or emulsion in aqueous or non-aqueous medium. Desirably, 0.5 to 1.0 percent of a surface active agent by weight is included in the liquid composition.

For .adjuvant purposes, any desired quantity of surface active agent may be employed, such as up to 250 percent of the active ingredient by weight. If the sur-' face active agent is used only to impart wetting qualities, for example, to the spray solution, as little as 0.05 percent, by weight, or less of the spray solution need be employed. The use of larger amounts of surface active agent is not based upon wetting properties but is a function of the physiological behavior of the surface active agent. These considerations are particularly applicable in the case of the treatment of plants. In liquid formulations the active ingredient often constitutes not over 30 percent, by weight, of the total and may be 10 percent, or even as low as 0.01 percent.

The novel mercury compounds of the present invention can be employed in compositions containing other pesticides, more especially fungicides, insecticides and bactericides.

In order that those skilled in the art may more completely understand the present invention and the preferred methods by which the same may be carried into effect, the following specific examples may be offered.

Example J.-Preparation of bis(1,8-nnadiynyl)mercury An alkaline mercuric iodide reagent is prepared in the following manner: To a solution of 326 g. potassium iodide in 326 ml. of distilled water is added 132 g. mercuric chloride with stirring until solution is complete The solution is filtered and 250 ml. of 10-percent aqueous sodium hydroxide solution is added. This solution contains 98 g. of mercury in 700 ml. or 0.14 g. per ml.

One-hundred ml. of the above mercuric reagent is placed in a container and neutralized with concentrated HCl. The pH is adjusted to about 8 with N sodium hydroxide solution. Then and four-tenths ml. (8.4 g.) of 1,8-nonadiyne in 200 ml. of 95 percent ethanol is added dropwise alternately with the base as necessary to maintain a pH of about. 8. The pH is then increased to about after all the diyne is added. The resulting White precipitate is suction filtered and washed several times with 50 percent aqueous alcohol. The product is then dried over phosphorous pentoxide at 1 mm. Hg. pressure, yielding a white powder, melting point 72 to 73 C. The desired C H l-lg is indicated through the following elemental analytical data:

Element Actual percent by wt. Calculated; percent by The infrared spectrum indicates the presence of a terminal triple bond and acidic hydrogen at 3.1 microns. This product has a calculated molecular weight of 439 and an observed molecular weight of 425 and is partially soluble in benzene.

Example 2.--Prep'arati0n of poly( 1,8-n0nadiynyl) mercury a white precipitate and is separated by filtration. This polymer is insoluble in water and decomposes at a temperature of about 190 to 200 C. The assigned structure wherein n is between 1 and 2, is confirmed by the analytical data Example 3.Preparati0n 0) 1 ,1 -mercury-bis(4,9-di0xa- 1,11-dodecadiyne-5,8-di0ne) Fifty ml. (0.035 mole) of the mercuric iode reagent described in Example 1 is placed in a container and neutralized with concentrated HCl. To this mixture is added a solution of 19.4 g. (0.1 mole) of dipropargyl succinate in 200 ml. of ethanol. A 5 N NaOH solution is added, dropwise, to maintain a pH of 8 to 9. The final pH of the reaction mixture is about 10. The white precipitate which forms is filtered and washed with 50% aqueous alcohol and is then air dried. The desired C H 0 Hg as indicated by infrared data decomposes at a temperature of 195 to 200 C.

Example 4.Preparati0n of copolymer of mercury and dipropargyl terephthalate Forty-seven ml. (0.033 mole) of K HgI is neutralized with concentrated HCl. Dipropargyl terephthalate (24 g., 0.1 mole) in 300 ml. of warm methanol is added. Aqueous 5 N NaOH is added, dropwise, to the stirred mixture to maintain a pH of about 8 to 9. The reaction temperaure is maintained at about 50 to 60 C. The resluting mixture is poured into a liter of cold water and filtered with suction. Water washing, drying at 50 C./1 mm. mercury gives 25 g. of white product which decomposes at a temperature of to C. Elemental analysis indicates that the polymer contains 40.8%, by weight, carbon, 3.2% by weight hydrogen and 23.4% by weight mercury.

Example 5.Preparati0n .of the copolymer of mercury and dipropargyl tetrachloroterephthalate Forty-seven ml. (0.033 mole) of K HgL, reagent is neutralized with HCl and 38 g. (0.1 mole) of dipropargyl tetrachloroterephthalate in 600 ml. of 95% ethanol is added at a temperature of about 55 to 60 C. Five N NaOH is added, dropwise, to maintain a pH of about 8 to 9. This basic mixture is poured into a liter of cold water to precipitate the product which upon being filtered and dried weights 43 g. The white product has a melting point greater than 200 C. Elemental analysis indicates that the polymer contains 36.4% carbon, 0.9% hydrogen and 13.0% mercury. Infrared spectrum indicates the presence of terminal triple bonds and 0 0 groups.

Example 6.Preparati0n of bis(.1,7-0ctadiynyl)mercury One hundred forty-seven ml. (0.1 mole) of K HgI reagent is neutralized with concentrated HCl and 31.8 g. (0.3 mole) of 1,7-octadiyne in 200 ml. of 95% ethanol is added at room temperature. Five N NaOH is added, dropwise, to maintain a pH of 8 to 9. At the end of the reaction the pH is increased to 10 and the product is filtered, washed twice with SO-percent ethanol and vacuum dried. Precipitation from acetone with water gives 35 g.

9 of product having a melting point of 63 to 64 C. The structure HCEC(CH CECHg CEC-(CH CECH is confirmed by infrared spectrum and the following elemental analysis:

Element Calculated percent Actual percent by wt.

by wt.

C 46. 75 46. 3 H 4. 4 4. Hg 48. 8 45.1

Example 7.Preparation of p0ly(1,7-octadiynyl mercury 11) To 200 ml. (0.15 mole) of basic K Hgh, reagent pH:12) is added 15.9 g. (0.15 mole) of 1,7-octadiyne in 100 ml. of 95% ethanol. The alcoholic diyne is added Example 8.Preparati0n of mercury (II) derivative of dipropargyl malonate Fifty ml. (0.035 mole) of K HgI reagent is neutralized with concentrated HCl and 18 g. (0.1 mole) of dipropargyl malonate in 250 ml. of 95% ethanol is added. Five N NaOH is added, dropwise, to maintain a pH of 8 to 9. The product is filtered and washed yielding 12 g. of grey powder which decomposes at a temperature of 150 to 160 C. Elemental analysis indicates that the polymer contains 23.0% carbon, 1.9% hydrogen and 53.3% mercury.

Example 9.P0!ymcric mercury derivative of bis(4- penrynyl) succinate Five and eight-tenths g. (0.023 mole) of bis(4- pentynyl) succinate is dissolved in 100 ml. of 95% ethanol. To this solution, at room temperature, is added 0.0084 mole of K HgI solution which has a pH of 10. A milky suspension forms and is quenched in 500 m1. of water. A white, taify-like polymer results (5.1 g., M.P. 46 to 50 C.) which on standing crystallizes to a product melting at 64 to 66 C. Elemental analysis indicates that the polymer contains 42.3% carbon, 4.1% hydrogen and 31.0% mercury. Infrared spectrum indicates the presence of terminal triple bonds and @0 groups.

Example .l-0.Preparati0n of mercury (11) derivative of bis(4-pentynyl) tetrachloroterephthalate Element Calculated percent by Actual percent by Wt.

10 Infrared spectrum indicates the presence of internal and terminal triple bonds and C=O groups.

Example 11.Preparati0rt of bis(1,7,13,19- eicosatetraynyl) mercury (11) Twenty-six and six-tenths g. (0.1 mole) of 1,7,13,19- eicosatetrayne is dissolved in 200 ml. of ehtanol. To this solution is added 60 ml. (0.05 mole) of basic K HgI reagent. The reaction mixture has a pH of about 8 to 9. The product is filtered from the reaction mixture and recrystallized from acetone to give 78% yield of fine white powder, having a melting point of 70 to 71 C. The assigned structure for C H I-Ig 2 4-] a 2 is confirmed by the following elemental analysis:

Element Calculated ipercent by Actual percent by Wt.

Infrared spectrum indicates terminal and internal triple bonds.

Example 12.-Preparati0n of bis(1,7,13-tetradecatriynyl) mercury (II) and poly[1,7,]3-tetradecatriynyl mercury K Hgl reagent (167 ml., 0.167 mole) is neutralized with dilute HCl and a solution of 65.2 g. (0.35 mole) of 1,7,13-tetradecatriyne in ml. of 95% methanol is added. The mixture is stirred and 5 N NaOH solution is added, dropwise. A pH meter is used and at a pH of 10 a reaction occurs as evidenced by the formation of a white solid. Additional NaOH is added over a period of one hour until a permanent pH of 12 is reached. The reaction mixture is poured into 200 ml. of distilled Water and the semi-solid material is collected on the stirring rod. This crude material is extracted with three 250-ml. portions of refluxing methanol. Cooling the extract causes the crystallization of 21 g. of fine white needles, having a melting point of 61.5 to 62.5 C. The bis compound C H Hg is confirmed by the mercury content which is found to be 35.4%, by weight, as compared to the calculated value of 35.2%. The insoluble residue is 7.4 g. of a white solid having a melting point of to C. The analysis is indicative of a linear polymer since the mercury content is found to be 42.1%, as compared to the calculated value of mercury for the bis com pound which is 35.2% and the mercury valve for a high polymer which is 52.2%

Example 13.Preparation of p0ly[dipr0pargyl succinate mercury (11)] To 19.4 g. (0.1 mole) of dipropargyl succinate, dissolved in 100 ml. of 95 ethanol, is added 100 ml. (0.1 mole) of K HgI reagent containing 0.2 mole of NaOH (pl-1:12). The final pH of the reaction mixture is between 7 and 8. The product is filtered, triturated under Water and refiltered. The filtrate is qunched with Water and the solids recovered to give 21.5 g. of a white prodnot that melts with decomposition at 200 to 230 C. Elemental analysis indicates that the roduct contains 37.1% carbon, 2.7% hydrogen and 39.9% mercury. Infrared spectrum indicates the presence of terminal and internal triple bonds as well as CECHgCEC linkage.

Example 14.Preparati0n of p0ly[dipr0pargyl malcate mercury (11)] Nineteen and two-tenths g. (0.1 mole) of recrystallized dipropargyl maletate is dissolved in 100 ml. of 95% ethanol. To this solution is added 100 ml. (0.1 mole) of basic K HgI reagent. The pH of the reaction mixture at the end of the reaction is between 7 and 8. The precipitate is filtered and treated with 50% ethanol and water to give 19.0 g. of white powder which decomposes at a temperature of 175 to 205 C. Elemental analysis shows that the product contains 40.2% mercury and infrared spectrum indicates the presence of terminal triple bonds.

Example 15.-Preparatin of bis(1,7,12-tetradecatriynyl) mercury (11) To 50 ml. (0.05 mole) of basic K HgI reagent is added 186 g. (0.10 mole) of 1,7,12-tetradecatriyne. The pH of the reaction mixture at the end of the reaction is between 7 and 8. The precipitate is removed by filtration to give 20.9 g. of a white powder which melts at a temperature of 70 to 72 C. Elemental analysis shows 35.0% mercury as compared to the 35.2% theoretical. Infrared analysis is consistent with the proposed structure of the bis compound Example 16.--Preparati0n of poly[1,8,15-hexadecatriynyl mercury (11) Example 17.Preparation of bis(1-chloro-5-11- dodecadiynyl) mercury (II) is supported by infrared analysis and the following elemental analysis:

Element Calculated tpercent; by Actual percent by Wt.

Example 18.Preparati0iz of bis(methyl-1,7,13,19- heneicosatetrayne-Zl -0ate) mercury (II) To 40 ml. (0.04 mole) of basic K HgI reagent is added 27 g. (0.08 mole) of methyl-2,8,14,20-heneicosatetrayne-l-oate in 200 ml. of 95 ethanol. The pH of the reaction mixture at the end of the reaction is between 7 and 8. The product is filtered, Washed with 50% ethanol and recrystallized with benzene to give 16 g. (64% yield) of purified material melting at 62 to 63 C. The proposed structure is supported by infrared analysis and the following elemental analysis:

Element Calculated tpercent by Actual percent by Wt.

C 62. 5 62. 8 H 6. 4 6. 5 Hg 23. 7 23. 7

Example 19.Preparation of bis(6-chl0r0-1- hexynyl) mercury (11) To ml. (0.1 mole) of basic K HgI reagent (pH=12) is added 23.3 g. (0.2 mole) of 1-chloro-5- hexyne in 200 ml. of methanol. The reaction mixture at the end of the reaction has a pH of between 7 and 8. The product is a waxy white material from which occluded KCl is precipitated by dissolving in ethyl ether. The product is then precipitated from the ether with ethanol as a waxy material which, on drying, gives 31.1 g. (72% yield) of product, melting at 47 to 48 C. The structure is supported by infrared analysis and the following elemental analysis:

Element Calculatcd tpercent by Actual percent by Wt.

Example 20.Preparati0n of bis(3-butynyl) tetrachloroterephthalate Into a Soxhlet thimble is placed 42.6 g. (0.125 mole) of tetrachloroterephthaloyl chloride and in the flask are placed 70 g. (1.0 mole) of 3-butynol-1, 19.7 g. (0.25 mole) of pyridine and 250 ml. of chloroform. The reaction mixture is heated to the reflux temperature of the cholorform and refluxing is continued for 9 hours. At the end of this time, the reaction mass is cooled and the excess alcohol and chloroform are stripped off to give 46.5 g. (91% yield) of crude product. The crude product is recrystallized from ether to give 45 g. (88% yield) of pure product, melting at 146 to 147 C.

Example 21.Preparati0n of p0ly[bis(3-butynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate mercury (II) To 50 ml. (0.05 mole) of basic K HgI reagent (pH=12) is added 40.8 g. (0.1 mole) of bis(3-butynyl)- Example 22.Tests against four species of bacteria Test formulations are examined for ability to inhibit the growth of four bacterial species Erwim'a amylovora (Ea), Xanthomonas phaseoli (X.p.), Microcococus pyrogenes Var. aureus (M.a.) and Escherechia coli (E.c.) at various concentrations. The basic test formulation contains 0.1 g. of the test chemical, 4 ml. acetone, 2 ml. stock emulsifier'solution (0.5% Triton X- in water by volume) and 74 ml. distilled water, the concentration of toxicant in this formulation being 1250 parts per million. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the basic formulation with distilled water. All of the bacterial species are cultured on nutrient agar slants except X. phaseoli which is grown on potato dextrose agar.

The cultures used for testing are subcultured for two sequential 24-hour periods to insure uniform test populations. Bacterial suspensions are made from the second sub-culture in the culture tube by addition of distilled water and gentle agitation, after which they are filtered through double layers of cheesecloth and adjusted to standard concentrations by turbidimetric measurment. Each of four test tubes arranged in a rack receive one ml. of the 1250 p.p.m. test formulation. After the test formulations have been measured into a test tube, 3 /2 ml. of distilled Water and /2 ml. of bacterial suspension for each respective test organism is added to each test tube. The medication tubes are then set aside at room temperature for four hours. After this exposure period, transfers are made by means of a standard 4 mm. platinum loop to 7 ml. of sterile broth. The broth tubes are then incubated for 48 hours at 29 to 31 C., at which time bacterial growth is determined by turbidimetric measure ment. A reading is recorded for each test tube after shaking. Three replicates of each organism serve as controls. Comparative growth calculations are made on the percent of the mean check reading. This value, subtracted from 100, gives percent control as compared to checks. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Concen- Percent control Compound tration En Xp. Ma. EA}.

1,1 mcrcuribis(4,9dioxa-L1 1- dodeeadiyue-5,8-dione) 500 100 100 100 100 Poly(l,8-nonadiynyl mercury) 250 100 100 56 14 Copolymer of bis(2-propynyl) tetraehloroterephthalate and Hg. 250 100 100 55 33 32 100 100 100 100 Bis(2:propynyl)malouate, Hg 2 derivative. 4 83 83 100 34 2 61 100 100 38 Polymeric Hg derivative of 4-penag gg 28 tynyl succinate. 16 59 54 32 43 250 87 100 100 100 Poly(l,7-octadiynyl mercury) 100 62 79 100 100 64 60 25 92 9 Poly[dipropargyl malcate Hg(l1)] 250 100 100 100 92 Copolyrner of bis(2-propynyl) terephthalate and Hg 250 100 100 100 100 Polyll,8,15-hexadecatriynyl Hg 250 94 84 100 33 Bis (G-ehloro-l-hexynyl) HgOII) 250 57 11 100 53 Polylbis(3 butynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate Hg (11)] 250 100 100 100 33 Example 23.Spre inhibition test on glass slides Inhibition of spore germination on glass slides by the test tube dilution method is adopted from the procedure recommended by the American Phytopathological Societys Committee on Standardization of Fungicidal Tests. In this screen, chemicals at 1000, 100, and 1.0 p.p.m. are tested for ability to inhibit germination of spores from 7- to lil-day-old cultures of Alternaria oleracea Mil. and Monilinia fructicola (\Vint.) honey. These concentrations refer to the actual concentrations after diluting the test preparations with spore stimulant and spore suspension. A formulation containing 0.1 g. of the test compound, 4 ml. acetone, 2 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-155 in water by volume) and 74 ml. distilled water is used for this test. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 1250 parts per million. The concentrations given above are diluted from this original AAA=0.01 to 0.1 p.p.m. AA=0.1 to 1.0 p.p.m. A=l.0 to 10 p.p.m. B l0 to p.p.m. C=100 to 1000 p.p.m. D: 1000 p.p.m.

Using this procedure, the following results were obtained:

Rating Compound tested A. oleracea M. fmcticola 1,1-mereuribis(4,9-dioxa-L1Ldodecadiyne 5,8-dione) Poly (1,8-nonadiynyl mercury) Bis(l,7-octadiynyl)ruercury A BitsQ-propynyl)malonate, Hg deriva- 1 ve P0ly(1,7-octadiynyl mercury) PolyllJ,13-tetradecatriynyl Hg (II)] Poly[dipropargyl succinate Hg (II)] Poly[dipr0pargyl maleato Hg (11)] Copolymer of bis(2-propynyl) terephthalate and. Hg. Po1y[1,8,15-l1exadecatriynyl Hg (II)] Bis(1-chl0ro-5,ll-dodeeadiynyl) Hg (II) C Bis(6-chloro-1-hexynyl) Hg (II) Polyflais (3-butynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate Hg(II)].

Example 24.F0liage protectant and eradicant tests The tomato foliage disease test measures the ability of the test compound to protect tomato foliage against infection by the early blight fungus Aliemaria solam' (E11. and Mart.) Jones and Grout and the late blight fungus Phytophthora infestans (Mont) De Bary. The method used is a modification of that described by McCallan and Wellman and employe tomato plants (var. Bonny Best) 5 to 7 inches high which are 4 to 6 weeks old. Duplicate plants, one set for each test fungus, are sprayed with various dosages of the test formulation at 40 lbs/sq. in. air pressure While being rotated on a turntable in a hood. The center of the turntable is 45 inches from the nozzle of the spray gun. The test formulation containing 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled water is applied at dosages equivalent to 2000 and 400 p.p.m. of the test chemical. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by employing less toxicant and more water, thereby maintaining the same concentrationof acetone and emulsifier.

After the spray deposit is dry, treated plants and controls (sprayed with formulation without toxicant) are sprayed while being rotated on a turntable with a spore.

suspension containing approximately 20,000 conidia of A. solam' per mL, or 150,000 sporangia of P. infestans per ml. The atomizer used delivers 20 ml. in the 30- second exposure period. The plants are held in a saturated atmosphere for 24 hours at 70 F. for early blight and 60 F. for late blight to permit spore germination and infection before removal to the greenhouse.

After two days from the start of the test for early blight and three days for late blight lesion counts are made on the three uppermost fully expanded leaves. The data are converted to percentage disease control based on the number of lesions obtained on the control plants. Dosages and percent disease control are given in the following table.

Example 25.-Foliage protectant and eradicant tests The tomato foliage disease test measures the ability of the test compound to protect tomato foliage against infection by the early blight fungus Alternaria solani (E11. and Mart.) Jones and Grout and the late blight fungus Phytophthora infestans (Mont) De Bary. The method used is a modification of that described by McCallan and Wellman and employs tomato plants (var. Bonny Best) to 7 inches high which are 4 to 6 Weeks old. Duplicate plants, one set for each test fungus, are sprayed with variout dosages of the test formulation at 40 lbs/sq. in. air pressure while being rotated on a turntable in a hood. The center of the turntable is 45 inches from the nozzle of the spray gun. The test formulation containing 0.2 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-155 in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled water is applied at dosages equivalent to 1000 and 200 p.p.m. of the test chemical. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by employing less toxicant and more water, thereby maintaining the same concentration of acetone and emulsifier.

After the spray deposit is dry, treated plants and controls (sprayed with formulation without toxicant) are sprayed while being rotated on a turntable with a spore suspension containing approximately 20,000 conidia of A. solani per ml., or 150,000 sporangia of P. infestans per ml. The atomizer used delivers 20 ml. in the 30- second exposure period. The plants are held in a satu rated atmosphere for 24 hours at 70 F. for early blight and 60 F. for late blight to permit spore germination and infection before removal to the greenhouse.

After two days from the start of the test for early blight and three days for late blight lesion counts are made on the three uppermost fully expanded leaves. The data are converted to percentage disease control based on the number of lesions obtained on the control plants. Dosages and percent disease control are given in the following table.

' Example 26.Seed decay and damping-0 pea test This test is used to determine activity against seed decay and damping-off fungi, primarily Pythium and Rhizoctonia species.

Soil known to be infested with seed decay and damping-01f fungi is placed in 4" x 4 x 3" plant band boxes and treatment is accomplished by drenching the soil with 74.25 ml. of the test formulation which is equivalent to 128 pounds per acre. This test formulation contains 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5 Triton X in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled water. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 2000 parts per million. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the formulation with distilled water. The plant band boxes have a surface area of 16 squaie inches and 1.16 mg. equals 1 pound per acre. One day after treatment, soil is removed from each box and thoroughly mixed in a five-pound paper bag and then replaced in the box. Three days after drenching, 25 pea seeds, var. Perfection, are planted in each box. From the time of treatment until the pea seeds begin to emerge, the boxes are held at 20 C. in a controlled temperature cabinet. Untreated check; and a standard material are included in each test in addition to a check planted in sterilized soil. After seed emergence the box is removed to the greenhouse bench and percentage stand is recorded 14 days after planting. The percentage stand is then expressed as percent control. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained.

Compound-Bis(1,7-octadiynyl) mercury:

Concentration, lbs/acre 128 Percent control 60 Example 27.Seed decay and damping-0]? pea test This test is used to determine activity against seed decay and damping-01f fungi, primarily Pythium and Rhizoctonia species.

Soil known to be infested with seed decay and dampingoff fungi is placed in plastic pots, 3%-inches square at top, Z A -inches square at base, 3 Ai-inches high and treatment is accomplished by drenching the soil with 37.2 ml. of the test formulation, which is equivalent to 64 pounds per acre. This test formulation contains 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-155 in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled water. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 2000 parts per million. Lower con-. centrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the formulation With distilled water. These plastic pots have a surface area at the soil line of 10.9 square inches and 0.79 mg. per pot corresponds to 1 pound per acre. One day after treatment soil is removed from each pot and thoroughly mixed in a five-pound paper bag and then replaced in the plastic pot. Three days after drenching 25 pea seeds, var. Perfection, are planted in each pot. From the time of treatment until the pea seeds begin to emerge the pots are held at 20 C. in a controlled temperature cabinet. Untreated checks and a standard material are included in each est in addition to a check planted in sterilized soil. After seed emergence the pot is removed to the greenhouse bench and percentage stand is recorded 14 days after planting. The percentage stand is then expressed as percent control. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Compound-Bis(fi-chloro-l-hexynyl) Hg (II) Concentration, lbs/acre 64 Percent control 64 Example 28.-Early blight systemic test This test measures the systemic fungicidal action of compounds of this invention against the early blight fun- 15 3 Alternaria SQlani. Tomato plants, two to three Weeks old, growing in four-inch clay pots, are employed. In the test, an appropriate dosage of test formulation is applied to the soil. A dosage of 56 ml. is equivalent to a concentration of active chemical of 112 mg, or 128 pounds per acre. This test formulation contains 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X155 in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled Water. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 2000 parts per million. Lower con centrations of toxicant are obtained by employing less toxicant and more water, thereby maintaining the same concentration of acetone and emulsifier.

One Week after the drench treatment, treated plants and controls (treated with formulation without toxicant) are sprayed while being rotated on a turntable with a spore suspension containing approximately 20,000 conidia of A. solaizi per ml. The atomizer used delivers 20 ml. in the 30-second exposure period. The plants are held in a saturated atmosphere for 24 hours at 70 F. to permit spore germination and infection before removal to the greenhouse. After 48 hours lesion counts are made and converted to percentage disease control based on check plants. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Example 29.Bean rust systemic test Pinto bean plants at a growth stage when the trifoliate leaves are just beginning to emerge from the axil of the seed leaves are used as the test species. These plants are grown in 4-inch pots and thinned to three plants per pot. Usually the plants are about 10 to 14 days old from time of planting. There are, therefore, six primary seed leaves per pot for each test unit. In the test, an appropriate amount of the test formulation is drenched on each pot. This test formulation contains 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-lSS in water by volume) and 187.6 ml. distilled water. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 2000 parts per million. A dosage of 56 ml. of the test formulation is equivalent to 112 mg. of chem ical or 128 pounds per acre. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the formulation with distilled water. About two or three hours after treatment the plants are exposed to a spore suspension of bean rust from a culture maintained in the greenhouse. It is not necessary to apply the spores to the plants, but spores are carried by air currents from the culture to the treated plants giving heavy uniform infection on the controls at the end of the holding period. After exposure, the plants are immediately placed in a moist chamber in a saturated atmosphere at 60 F, for 24 hours after which they are removed to the greenhouse. The rust spore suspension is prepared with one part of rust spores, 16 parts of talc and 26,000 parts of water. Counts are made about 10 days after spore exposure and the mean number of rust pustules per leaf is determined. These counts are calculated against the check counts to arrive at the per centage disease control. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

*Ph=pliytotoxiclty, from 1slight injury to ll-lrill.

Example 30.S0il mycelial growth inhibition test The following test measures the ability of compounds of this invention to inhibit mycelial growth in soil. Sterilized soil is infested with Rhizoczonia solam' (grown on a corn meal sand medium) by mixing two 250-ml. flasks of a ten-day-old culture of the organism per level flat of sterile soil. The infested soil is then placed in small Dixie cups (4 oz. squat). Treatment of the soil is accomplished by drenching the appropriate amount of a diluted formulation containing 0.4 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-l55 in water by volume) and 187.6 ml distilled Water on the surface of the soil in the test cup. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 2000 parts per million. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the formulation with distilled Water. Surface area of the soil in the cups is 5.73 square inches; therefore, a rate of one pound per acre requires 0.414 mg. of chemical per cup. After drenching the cups are placed in a saturated atmosphere at 70 F. for 48 hours. By this time the fungus mycelium has completely overgrown the surface of the soil in the control cups. Inhibition of mycelial growth in the treated Cups is estimated on a scale from zero, complete inhibition of growth, to ten which is equivalent to controls. These grades are expressed as percent control. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Example 31.-Cuczrmber anthracnose test This test measures the ability of the test compound to control anthracnose of cucumber incited by the fungus Colletotriclzum lagenarium.

The method used is a modification of that described by McCallan and Wellman and employs cucumber plants, (var. National Pickling) having one fully expanded leaf. Duplicate plants are sprayed with various dosages of the test formulation at 20 lbs./ sq. in. air pressure while being rotated on a turntable in a hood. The center of the turntable is 45 inches from the nozzle of the spray gun. The test formulation containing 0.2 g. of test compound, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X- in water by volume) and 1876 ml. distilled water is applied at dosages equivalent to 1000 to 200 ppm. of the test chemical. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by employing less toxicant and more water, thereby maintaining the same concentration of acetone and emulsifier.

After the spray deposit is dry treated plants and controls (sprayed with formulation without toxicant) are sprayed While being rotated on a turntable with a spore suspension containing approximately 400,000 spores per ml. of Colletotrichum lagenarium. The atomizer used delivers 20 ml. in the 30-second exposure period. The plants are held in a saturated atmosphere for 24 hours at 70 F. to permit spore germination and infection before removal to the greenhouse.

After four to six days from the start of the test lesion counts are made. The data are converted to percentage disease control based on th number of lesions obtained on the control plants. Dosages and percent disease control are given in the following table.

Example 32.-See germination of broadleaf and grassy weeds Seeds of crabgrass and lambsquarter are exposed in Petri dishes to aqueous suspensions or solutions of the test chemicals at 1250 and 125 parts per million. This test formulation contains 0.1 g. of the test compound, 4 ml. acetone, 2 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5 Triton X-l55 in water by volume) and 74 ml. distilled Water. The concentration of toxicant in this formulation is 1250 parts per million. Lower concentrations of toxicant are obtained by diluting the formulation with distilled water. A standard scoop of each type of seed (0.24 ml.) is uniformly scattered in separate dishes containing filter paper discs moistened with 5 ml. of the test formulation at each concentration. After 10 to 14 days at 70 F. test compounds are rated on ability to inhibit germination of seed. The alphabetical ratings correspond to the concentration that inhibits germination of half of the seeds (EDSO) in the Petri dish; A=1.25 to 12.5 p.p.m., 13:12.5 to 125 p.p.m., C=125 to 1250 p.p.m., and D=greater than 1250. Ratings of D, C and equal to or greater than B are the possible ratings since only two concentrations are used. The A and B ratings are used primarily for the standards. Using this procedure, the following results were obtained:

Rating Compound tested Broadleaf Grassy Copolymer of bis(2-pr0pynyl)terephtha- 0.

late and Hg.

Bis(2-propynyl)malonate, Hg derivative 0.

Example 33.-Sil watering tests-tomato and bean To measure the growth regulating and herbicidal responses when chemicals are absorbed by roots and translocated, tomato plants, var. Bonny Best, to 7 inches tall, and beans, var. Tendergreen, just as the trifoliate leaves are beginning to unfold, are treated by drenching appropriate portions of a formulation containing 0.4 g. of the test chemical, 8 ml. acetone, 4 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-155 in water) and 187.6 ml. distilled water (concentration of the test chemical=2000 p.p.m.) on soil in clay pots containing the test plants. Tomatoes (1 plant per 4-inch pot) and bean plants (4 plants per 3 /2-inch pot) are treated with appropriate dosages of the 2000 p.p.m. formulation. Dosages of 56 ml. of the formulation in the 4-inch pot and 42 ml. in the 3 /2-inch pot are equivalent to 112 mg. and 84 mg. of chemical per pot, respectively, or 128 pounds per acre. Plants are held in a greenhouse for two weeks before records are taken. Phytotoxicity is rated on the scale from 0, indicating no plant injury, to 1 1, plant kill. Additionally, all other responses such as stunting, formative effects, defoliant activity, growth regulant properties, chlorosis and the like are recorded. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Compoundl,1' mercuribis(4,9 dioxa 1,11 dodecadiyne-5,8-di one):

Concentration, lbs/acre Phytotoxicity rating:

Tomato Beans Ph 11 Example 34.Pre-emergence tests in soil To evaluate the effect of compounds of this invention upon the germination and subsequent growth of seeds in soil, two mixtures of seeds are used. One contains three broadleaf species (turnip, flax and alfalfa) and the other contains three grass species (millet, ryegrass and timothy). Each mixture is planted diagonally in one-half of a 9x9x2-inch aluminum pan filled to within one-half inch of the top with composted greenhouse soil. After planting, the seed mixture is uniformly covered with about onequarter inch soil and watered. After 24 hours, a quantity of a basic formulation containing 167 mg. of the test chemical, 20 ml. acetone, 2 drops Triton X155, and 20 ml. of distilled water is sprayed, at 10 pounds per square inch air pressure, uniformly over the surface of the pan. A dosage of 40 ml. of the basic formulation is equivalent to 32 pounds active chemical per acre. When less concentrated dosages are desired, the basic formulation is diluted. TWo weeks after treatment, estimates are made on the fresh weight of seedling stand in the treated pans as well as in an untreated control pan. The percent control obtained with the test chemical is calculated. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

Example 35.R00t-knot nematode test This test is an evaluation of the effectiveness of the compounds of this invention against root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne sp.).

Composted greenhouse soil diluted by one-third with clean, washed sand is placed in /z-gallon glazed crocks and infested with 3 to 5 g. of knotted or galled tomato roots. Treatment is accomplished by mixing the test chemical intimately with the soil if a solid, or by drenching, if a liquid, paste, or of gummy consistency. The drench formulation contains 4% acetone, 0.01% Triton X155, 0.384% test chemical in a total volume of ml. of water, all of which is drenched on the test crock. Concentration of this formulation is 256 pounds per acre, based on the surface area of the /2-gallon test container. The soil surface area equals 21.7 square inches, therefore, 256 pounds per acre equals 384 mg. of chemical. Lower concentrations are prepared by employing less of the test chemical in the formulation. The mixing of the solid test chemicals is accomplished by placing the infested soil and the chemical in a 20-pound paper bag and mixing thoroughly. The soil is then replaced in the crock to which is added 100 ml. of water. In the case of the drench treatment, the chemicals are mixed after 2 or 3 days as described above via the paper bag method. After treatment, all crocks are stored at 20 C., being covered with plastic to maintain moisture.

Seven days after treatment, three seedling (var. Bonny Best) tomatoes are transplanted into each crock. After three weeks in the greenhouse, the plants are removed from the soil carefully and the roots inspected for nematode galls. A rating of infection is made from 0=no galls or complete control to 10=heavily galled roots comparable to controls. Phytotoxicity results are also reported (0=no effect to 11=plant dead). Each of the three plant root systems is rated separately and the average is multiplied by 10 and subtracted from 100 to give percent nematode control. Results of the tests are as Example 3 6 .Panagrell us test Nonplant parasitic nematodes (Panagrellus redivivus) are exposed to the test chemical in small watch glasses, US. Bureau of Plant Industrys model, 27 mm. diameter x 8 mm. deep, within a 9 cm. Petri dish. Three watch glasses are used; two of these receive appropriate dosages of a test formulation containing 0.1 g. or 0.1 ml. of the test compound, 4 ml. acetone, 2 ml. stock emulsifier solution (0.5% Triton X-155 by volume) and 74 ml. distilled water, 0.1 g. being equivalent to 1250 ppm. and the third receives the same dosage of distilled water. After all of the test dishes have been set up in this manner, a 0.1 ml. of Panagrellus suspension is added to each watch glass bringing the concentration down to exactly 1000 ppm. After these additions are made, the Petri dishes are closed. The watch glass in the center of each dish, containing only water and nematodes, detects fumigant action. The other two containing chemical and nematodes measure contact activity. The total amount of toxicant in the Petri dish is 1 mg. for fumigant action. Dilution is made of the 1250 p.p.m. formulation for lower concentrations.

The organism is grown and cooked oatmeal which is sterilized in the autoclave before being centrally inoculated from an old culture. The culture is held at 22 C. and after 10 to 14 days the surface of the oatmeal is swarming with nematodes which are visible to the eye. Such a culture is used to prepare the test suspension. The concentration of the nematodes is adjusted so that each watch glass contains to nematodes. At the end of 48 hours mortality counts are made from which percent kill can be determined. Using this procedure, the following results are obtained:

In order to test the mercury compounds of this invention for their ability to inhibit the formation of mold on exterior painted surfaces and to contribute to the general appearance of the surfaces, the compounds are incorporated into a paint formulation which is applied to test panels and exposed to the atmosphere. For purposes of comparison, a reference standard is applied to a similar test panel which is subjected to identical exposure conditions.

All of the test panels are given a primer coat of commercially available white exterior undercoater paint. The second coat which is applied to the panels is a white gloss exterior paint, having the following composition:

Percent by weight: Ingredient 19.5 Zinc oxide. 4.4 Monobasic lead sulfate. 10.1 Titanium dioxide. 25.8 Silicates. 3.2 Calcium carbonate. 15.9 Raw linseed oil. 11.1 High-polymer linseed oil. 3.7 Drier. 6.3 Mineral spirits.

The reference standard is formulated by combining 1.5 gallons of phenyl mercury oleate with 100 gallons of the above paint. Each of the mercury compounds of this invention is combined with the above paint composition using an amount of the compound such that the mercury content of the formulated paint is equal to that of the reference standard.

After exposure to the atmosphere for a suflicient length of time, the panels are given a numerical rating from 10 to 0. A rating of 10 indicates that the painted surface is unchanged after exposure and a rating of 0 indicates a definite dinginess or loss of whiteness. One series of these test panels is exposed to the atmosphere near the Gulf Coast of Southern United States for a period of seven months. The ratings on these panels are given Bis(1-chloro-5,1l-dodecadiynyl)mercury (II) 4 Bis(methyl-1,7,13,19-heneicosatetrayne- 21-oate) Hg (II) 4 A second series of test panels is exposed to the atmosphere near the Great Lakes for a period of nine months. These panels are arranged on the exposure rack in such a manner that, except when blown by wind, rain on an upper panel does not drip onto the lower panel. The ratings on these panels are given in Table II.

TABLE II Mercury compound Rating mold General appearance Standardphenyl mercury oleate Copolyrner of his (2-propynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate and Hg Bis (1, 7,13, ls-eicosa tetraynyhmercury. Bis(l, 7,13-tetradccatriynyl)mercury Poly(1, 8 nonadiynyl mercury) Poly [dipropargyl suecinate Hg (II Poly idipropargyl maleate Hg (II)] Copolyrner or bis(2-propynyl)terephthalate and Hg Bis(l, 7, litetradeeatriynyl) mercury (II) Bis(1-chloro-5. ll-(lodecadiynyl) y (II) Bis(methyl-1, 7, l3, Ill-he 2l-oate) Hg (II) Bis(6-chloro-1-hexynyl) Hg (II) Poly [bis (B-butyuyl) tetrachloroterephthalate Hg (11)] mmcmeu m i was a) mm c: 047: tacacwmca 02 Results of these tests indicate that the mercury compounds of this invention are at least equal to and frequently are better than the reference standard, both in inhibiting mold and in contributing to the general appearance of the painted surface.

It is to be understood that although the invention has been described with specific reference to particular embodiments thereof, it is not to be so limited, since changes and alterations therein may be made which are within the full intended scope of this invention as defined bv the appended claims.

Results of these tests indicate that the mercury compounds of this invention are at least equal to and frequently are better than the reference standard, both in inhibiting mold and in contributing to the general appearance of the painted surface.

It is to be understood that although the invention has been described with specific reference to particular embodiments thereof, it is not to be so limited, since changes and alterations therein may be made which are within the full intended scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is: and 12 percent by weight chlorine and has termianl triple 1. A polyacetylenic diester having the structure bonds.

L |x A wherein n is a number from 1 to 100, inclusive; x is a 12. The reaction product of bis(2-propyny1)-ma1onate number from 1 to 100, inclusive; R R, R and R are and potassium mercuric iodide which decomposes at aternalkylene radicals; and R is a divalent hydrocarbon radical perature of about 150 to 160 C. and contains approxiselected from the group consisting of alkylene, arylene and haloarylene radicals.

2. A polyacetylenic diester having the structure mately 23 percent by weight carbon, 2 percent by weight hydrogen and 5 3 percent by Weight mercury.

u u I H-CEC-(CHz)nOC(R )mCO wherein a, m, nand x are each integers from 1 to 100, in- 13. The method of preparing an acetylenic mercury elusive, and R is a divalent hydrocarbon radical selected compound of the structure a H{CEC(CHZ)n-O( 3(R")mb-O-(CHz)aCEC-Hg] CEC(CH)B o g H HC C(CHz)nO (R )mC0 from the group consisting of alkylene, and haloarylene which comprises reaction a compound of the structure radicals.

3. 1,1'-mercuribis(4,9-dioxa 1,11 dodecadyne 5,8- II II dione) nc=ooH2)..oc n )mo-o(onz) .c:oH

4 Poly[bis(z p opynyl)terephthalate mercury With a mercuric CH fiOIIlC reagent selected from the group which contains approximately 41 percent by weight car- 0 8 9 (1116311 metal mefcurlc hallfies 9 y' bon, 3 percent by weight hydrogen, 23 percent by Weight wherein n s an integer of at least 1; m s an nteger of at mercury d decomposes t a temperatufg f bo t 150 least; 1; a is an integer of at least 1; x is an integer of at to least 1; and R is selected from the group consisting of 5. Poly[bis(Z-propynyl)-tetrachloroterephthalate meralkylene, y and 11211031111611a fadlcals, at 3 P greater cury (11)] which contains approximately 36.5 percent by than 7 and at a temperature from about room temperature weight carbon, 1 percent by weight hydrogen, 13 percent t a u 70 C- by weight mercury, has terminal acetylenic bonds and has a melting Point above 0 References Cited by the Examiner 6. Poly[bis(4-pentynyl)succinate mercury (11)] which UNITED STATES PATENTS contains approximately 42 percent by weight carbon, 4 percent by weight hydrogen and 31 percent by Weight 2,145,595 1/ 1939 Garnitz et a1 260-431 mercury, has terminal trip bonds and melts at a tempera- 2,251,778 8/ 1941 B-onrath et a1 260431 ture of about 64 to 66 C. 2,329,883 9/ 1943 Daskais 260-431 7. Poly[bis(4 pentynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate mer- 2,329,884 9/ 1943 Daskais 260-431 cury (11)] having the empirical formula C H O C1 Hg. 2,369,339 2/ 1945 Daskais 260-431 8. Poly[dipropargyl succinate mercury (11)] which 2,990,265 6/1961 Hammet et a1. 71-2.3 melts with decomposition at a temperature of about 200 3,054,668 9/ 1962 Josephs 71-2.7 to 230 C. and contains approximately 37 percent by 3,087,951 4/ 1963 Wotiz 260-431 Weight canbon, 2.5 percent by weight hydrogen and 40 FOREIGN PATENTS percent by weight mercury.

9. Poly[dipropargyl maleate mercury (11)] which de- 484,090 4/1938 Great Britain.

corn oses at a temperature of about 175 to 205 C.,

cont ins approximately 40 percent by weight mercury and OTHER REFERENCES has terminal triple bonds- Coates et a1., Organo-Metallic Compounds, (London),

10. Bis(methyl-1,7,13,19-heneicosatetrayne 21 oate) 1956, pages 4941.

mercury (11).

11. Poly[bis(3 -butynyl)tetrachloroterephthalate mer- T031 AS LEVOW, Primary Examiner.

cury (11)] which melts with decomposition at a temperature of about 205 to 210 C., contains approximately 34.5 JULIAN S. LEVITT, Examzner.

percent by weight carbon, 2 percent by weight hydrogen a 

1. A POLYACETYLENIC DIESTER HAVING THE STRUCTURE 